Ranking
4th
In the UK for Geology
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Course overview
Find out more about Earth's evolution and uncover the mysteries of volcanic eruptions, climate change, and dinosaur extinction. Gain valuable insights into the planet's past and future environmental challenges. Embark on an exciting research project, blending field and lab work to tackle scientific questions
Study Earth Science at the University of Birmingham
Two of our students, Amani Kouasii and Charlotte White, talk about why they chose to study Earth Sciences at the University of Birmingham, and what they love most about it.
I got to study a subject I enjoyed and in later years I was able to choose the modules and tailor the course to my particular interests. I got involved with staff research projects and undertook paid work as a lab assistant and participated on lake coring fieldwork in five countries across Europe (Italy, Germany, France, Denmark and Finland).
Join our four year programme consisting of core (compulsory) and optional modules. Each module will be assessed in different ways depending on the topic you're studying.
Year 1
Year 1
In your first year, you’ll receive broad Earth Science training with compulsory modules. No prior knowledge is needed; chemistry, physics, and maths are taught within the modules. you will also have the opportunity to take field trips to Northern Ireland and South West Wales to develop key geological skills.
Year 2
Year 2
In your second year, you will elevate your Earth Science expertise with compulsory modules ensuring accreditation. Experience UK field courses in south west England, exploring palaeontology, sedimentology, petrology, and structural geology.
Year 3
Year 3
In year three, embark on an exciting research project, blending field and lab work to tackle scientific questions. Enjoy an international field module in Spain exploring diverse geological wonders. Customise your journey with three optional modules in Earth or Environmental Sciences, or Physical.
Final Year
Final Year
In year four, embark on a thrilling, more in-depth, research project tailored to your passions, alongside a skills-based field module with an international trip to the Island of Crete! Customise your journey with two optional modules from Earth Sciences and Physical Geography, diving deeper into your unique interests.
Why Study Geology at Birmingham?
- 4th
in the UK for Geology
According to the Times League Table 2026
- Top 150
In the World for Geology
The QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
- Top 5
In the UK for Geology
According to The Complete University Guide 2026
Begin an exhilarating journey and delve into fascinating subjects like volcanic eruptions, climate change and ancient civilisations, while gaining invaluable hands-on experience through extensive fieldwork in our additional fourth year.
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Research-led teaching – Our research informs our programmes, taught by expert academics. REF ranks University of Birmingham 3rd in the UK for Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences.
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Flexibility - The varied module portfolio allows you to specialise in areas of interest, from natural hazards to climate change and hydrogeology.
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Fieldwork – An essential part of our degree programmes. In the first two years you'll dive into exciting fieldwork gaining observational and analytical skills. Destinations including Pembrokeshire, Jurassic Coast, Cornwall, Crete and Spain. The best bit, the University currently covers travel and accommodation costs for all compulsory field courses.
- Accreditation - Accredited by the Geological Society of London, it meets professional standards and aids in achieving Chartered Geologist status. Graduates can explore thrilling careers in mining, the oil industry, hydrogeology, pollution control, and environmental protection.
- We are also ranked 9th in the UK for Earth and Marine Sciences According the the Guardian (2026)
Talk to our students
Hear more about studying at Birmingham. Chat to one of our friendly students to find out more about your favourite course, our beautiful campus and life in our vibrant and cultural city.
Course delivery
Our course combines a mix of study modes, including lectures, fieldwork, lab analysis, data classes, and tutorials.
Lecture
Seminar
Tutorial
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Fieldwork - Is a key element of our degree programmes, and Earth Sciences at Birmingham has an outstanding reputation for providing its students with high quality field training.
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Placement years - We provide you with an opportunity to work with an external organisation for a year, gaining valuable experience and skills that prepare you for your future career.
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Taught Modules - Our research feeds into all our teaching, including lectures, small group tutorials, group learning and presentations.
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Resources and Facilities - Our unique facilities include the Lapworth Museum of Geology. Which has more than 250,000 specimens some over 500 million years old. As one of the oldest specialist designated and accredited geological museums in the UK, this is an invaluable study resource at your disposal. We also have a state-of-the-art Collaborative Teaching Lab (CTL) with wet, dry, and e-labs.
Support during your studies
You will have access to a comprehensive support system to help you make the transition to higher education when you start at Birmingham:
Personal academic tutors – You will be assigned your own personal academic tutor who will get to know you as you progress through your studies. They will provide academic support and advice to enable you to make the most of your time here at Birmingham.
Wellbeing Officers – Alongside your personal academic tutor, you will also have access to dedicated wellbeing officers who provide professional support, advice and guidance to students across a range of issues. They can meet with you to discuss extensions, disabilities, reasonable adjustments, extenuating circumstances, or talk through any problems you might be experiencing, and help you access wider support on campus and beyond if you need it.
Our Student Experience Team - Will help you get the most out of your academic experience. They offer research opportunities, study skills support, and help you prepare for your post-university career. They also organise social events, such as field trips, to help you meet fellow students from your course.
Contact hours
All Birmingham degrees are set within a credit framework designed to measure your academic achievements. We expect all students to accumulate 120 credits in each full year of study which is equivalent to 45-54 hours of learning a week. Learning is considered to include contact learning (lectures and seminars), private study, revision and assessment.
For this programme, you can expect 10-14 hours of classes weekly in years one and two, and 6-9 hours in the final year.
Assessment methods and feedback
Earth Sciences uses a variety of methods to assess student performance, including exams, essays and dissertations. At the beginning of each module, you'll be given information on how and when you'll be assessed for that particular area of study.
This course is accredited by the Geological Society of London.
Accreditation indicates that the course offers sound training for a professional career in the geosciences, and satisfies the academic requirements to achieve Fellowship and Chartered Geologist status.
Module information
The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
The optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.
Year 1
Year 1
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LC Introductory Field and Research Skills | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LC Connected Earth: Environmental Systems and Change | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LC Earth History and Life | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LC Earth Materials | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LC Field and Research Skills II | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LC Structural Geology | 20 | Semester 2 |
Year 2
Year 2
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LC Introductory Field and Research Skills | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LC Connected Earth: Environmental Systems and Change | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LC Earth History and Life | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LC Earth Materials | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LC Field and Research Skills II | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LC Structural Geology | 20 | Semester 2 |
Year 3
Year 3
This year will be spent with the partner institutions. Taught modules taken there will be selected in consultation with the Programme Tutor and advice from the collaborating institution. Normally, any fieldwork for the Earth Sciences Research Project will be undertaken prior to departure overseas, and will be written-up while abroad. To allow for the completion of this project, students will undertake 75% of the full-time load at the host institution. Exceptionally, the project may be undertaken abroad, if suitable collaborative arrangements can be made.
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LH Earth Sciences Research Project | 40 | Full Term |
| LH Year Abroad Module 1 | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LH Year Abroad Module 2 | 15 | |
| LH Year Abroad Module 3 | 15 | |
| LH Year Abroad Module 4 | 15 | |
| LH Year Abroad Module 5 | 15 |
Final Year
Final Year
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Advanced Project | 60 | Full Term |
| LM Field, Research & Communication Skills | 20 | Semester 1 |
Choose 40 credits of optional modules from the following:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Climate Change in the Earth System | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Engineering Geology and Geomorphology | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Evolution of Vertebrates | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Evolutionary Palaeobiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Exploring the Energy Transition | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Groundwater Organic Contaminant Pollution and Remediation (for MSci) | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Hydrogeomorphology and Catchment Management | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Inorganic Chemistry and Groundwater & Borehole Design, Construction and Maintenance | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Palaeoclimates | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Professional Placement | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM River Habitats and Biogeochemistry – Assessment and Monitoring | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Solving Groundwater Problems | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Tectonics and Volcanology | 20 | Semester 2 |
Teaching staff
Dr James Bendle
Reader (Associate Professor) in Organic Geochemistry
Dr Bendle is a paleoclimatologist, specialising in molecular organic geochemistry.
Entry requirements
To secure a place at Birmingham, you'll need to meet our general entry requirements as well as those specific to your course.
- A Level
AAB Including 1 Required Science
- IB
6,6,5 32 points overall Including HL in 1 Required Science
- BTEC
We welcome students studying BTEC qualifications as an alternative to A levels, and accept BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Extended Certificate. Please contact us for further guidance.
Number of A levels required: 3
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Accepted Science Subjects
Biology/Chemistry/Computing/Electronics/Environmental Studies/Further Maths/Geography/Geology/Human Biology/Maths/ Physics/Psychology/Statistics/PE
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General Studies
General Studies is not accepted, but a good performance may be taken into account if you fail to meet the conditions of the offer.
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International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma
6,6,5 in Higher Level subjects plus 32 points overall. Including HL in 1 Required Science.
BTEC qualifications
We welcome students studying BTEC qualifications as an alternative to A levels, and accept BTEC Extended Diploma, Diploma and Extended Certificate. Please contact us for further guidance.
English language requirements
If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 in Listening, 21 in Speaking and 19 in Writing.
- IELTS*: 6.0 overall with no less than 5.5 in any band.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills.
- Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015)***: C1 Advanced - Minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component.
- Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 25 in each skill.
- Trinity ISE II: Distinction all skills.
- Trinity ISE III: Pass in each Skill
Presessional English courses
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September, including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Applicants who take the EPQ and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in the EPQ. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Core Maths qualification
Applicants who take the Core Maths qualification and meet our offer criteria will be made the typical offer for their programme of choice, plus an alternative offer which will be one grade lower plus a grade A in Core Maths. If you are also taking A-level Maths, you will not be eligible for an alternative offer through studying Core Maths. This offer would apply if you make Birmingham your firm choice.
Am I likely to receive an offer for 2026?
Stay up-to-date with news and updates from the University of Birmingham including events, our courses and studying with us by registering your details. If you do so, you will be able to use our Offer Calculator.
Alternative Offers
Students who are eligible and complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme will receive an alternative offer, which is typically two grades below the standard offer.
Our Contextual Offer scheme
Our Contextual Offer scheme recognises the potential of students whose personal circumstances may have restricted achievement in school or college. If you are eligible to benefit from the Contextual Offer scheme, you will receive an offer which is one grade lower than the standard offer. You don’t need to apply for this – it will be assessed and applied at the point of application if you’re eligible.
- Pathways to Birmingham
BBB - Including 1 Required Science
- Contextual Offer
ABB - Including 1 Required Science
Fees and scholarships
The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, examination and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
- £9,535*
per year for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27
*The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year. If Parliament agrees on an increase in tuition fees, the University will increase fees for each year of study, normally in line with these changes and will communicate any change in the fees to you without delay. The fee for September 2025 entry was £9,535 for UK students. If you are applying for 2026 entry, you will be advised of the annual tuition fee once it is confirmed by the Government.
Undergraduate loans
To help with the cost of studies, undergraduate students from the UK can apply for student finance through the Student Loans Company. The support available is made up of a tuition fee loan and a maintenance loan which helps to cover living costs.
Scholarships, grants and bursaries
At Birmingham, we believe that financial worries should not be a barrier to accessing higher education. That’s why we offer a range of additional financial support for students through scholarships, bursaries and other awards.
Financial support for Home students
If you're a UK student and starting university in September 2026, find out more about what financial support is available to you.
Financial support for International students
We want to help you reach your full potential. Explore our wide variety of scholarships available for international students.
Application process
Whatever your journey to university looks like, we’re here to support you every step of the way. For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, you apply online through UCAS. The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
- 14 January 2026
Application deadline for September 2026 entry. Applications close at 18:00 GMT.
View further information on how to apply for undergraduate courses, including advice for UK and overseas applicants.
What careers can I do with a Geology degree?
Offering diverse possibilities throughout your degree and especially in the specialist fourth year, conduct a personalised research project and join an international field trip to Tenerife. Graduates pursue careers in mining, hydrogeology, pollution control, and environmental protection. Many continue with MSc or PhD programs, enhancing career prospects. Accredited by the Geological Society of London, it aids in achieving Chartered Geologist status.
Graduates from this programme have gone on to work for organisations including:
- University of Birmingham
- Arup
- Jacobs
- SLR Consulting
- Optus
- Bp
- RSK Geosciences
- Campbell Scientific Ltd
- McConnell Dowell
- Biffa
- Fisher German LLP
- Berkeley Group Plc
- Trident Utilities
- Wythenshawe Community Housing Group
- British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA)
Their job roles include:
- Director
- Supply Chain Director
- Service Line Director, Earth Sciences
- Sales Director
- Graduate Minerals Surveyor & Geologist
- Construction Supervisor
- General Manager Health, Safety, Environment and Sustainability
- Category Buyer
- Head of Remediation
- Principal Geo-environmental Engineer
- Head of Product Management at Incuto
- Head of Civil Engineering
- Commercial Manager
- Environmental Specialist
- Data Analyst
- Geologist
The University is the top choice for the UK's major employers searching for graduate recruits.
The Graduate Market in 2025, High Fliers report
Receive one-to-one careers advice, including guidance on your job applications, writing your CV and improving your interview technique.
Meet employers face-to-face at on-campus recruitment fairs and employer presentations.
Careers Network
Our aim is to make sure that success in your studies leads you on to a fulfilling career. Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offer support to help you identify your options, develop your skills and gain access to opportunities that propel you towards your career goal.
Built in Birmingham. Forged for the future.
Hear from some of our inspiring alumni who have gone on to work for leading employers such as the UK Space Agency and BBC Sport.
Student experience
Your experience studying at Birmingham will give you the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life.
Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community, and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.
Accommodation
Coming to Birmingham to study might be your first time living away from home. In our student accommodation, you can enjoy your independence in safe, welcoming and sociable surroundings.
Living in Birmingham
Our cosmopolitan city has a unique history and so much to see and do. With an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of culture, our city is more than somewhere to study.
Student support
Whoever you are and wherever you come from, we are committed to providing the best possible support to our students, both before you start and throughout your time on campus.
Campus life
Our beautiful campus is the place where our diverse community comes together to learn and socialise. Like a town of its own, it’s just minutes from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s second city.
Flexible programmes to suit you
Not sure what you want to study?
Explore your options for combining subjects and shape your degree around your interests, whilst developing key skills for the world of work.
Take a virtual tour
Explore our beautiful campus from wherever you are. Get a feel for the wide range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.